Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Takehiro Tomiyasu will not be available for selection until after the upcoming international break. The Japanese defender, who plays primarily as a right-back, has been sidelined due to injury. Arteta’s statement, as reported, indicates that the club will have to manage without Tomiyasu for the immediate future.
Impact on Arsenal’s Defence
Tomiyasu, 25, joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2021 and has been a versatile asset in the defensive line, capable of playing both as a full-back and a centre-back. His absence will require Arteta to adjust his defensive strategies, potentially relying on other squad members to fill the gap.
Arsenal’s Upcoming Fixtures
The Gunners face a series of challenging fixtures in the Premier League and European competitions. The international break provides a window for Tomiyasu to recover, but Arsenal will need to navigate their upcoming matches without his defensive contributions.
Arteta’s Tactical Adjustments
With Tomiyasu unavailable, Arteta may consider several options to maintain defensive solidity:
- Utilising Ben White, who has experience playing as a right-back.
- Deploying Cedric Soares, another option for the right-back position.
- Adjusting the formation to accommodate the absence of Tomiyasu.
The manager’s tactical decisions will be crucial in ensuring Arsenal’s continued success during this period.